ATTRACTIONS

There are many things to do in the area within a short drive or boat ride away. This area offers such a rich environment of nature and history that the options are endless. There are also great opportunities for shopping and eating out.

Cayo Costa State Park

Cayo Costa State Park is only accessible by boat. It is just a short boat ride away with 2,416 acres. This barrier island state park offers miles and miles of pristine beach, fishing, shelling, hiking, and picnicking and island history. Many of the marinas offer water taxi service to the island.

Archaeology Tours at the Randell Research Center

Archaeology Tours at the Randell Research Center give you a glimpse into the lives of the Calusa Indians that once lived on these islands. The Heritage Trail is a 3,700-foot interpretive walkway that leads you through canals, mounds and other archaeological features.

Cabbage Key Island

Cabbage Key Island is another sightseeing destination by boat or with an area ferry service. Enjoy the historic inn built in 1938 as the winter home of author Mary Roberts Reinhart. Today the home is a casual restaurant serving a lunch and dinner menu. See Marina information and Island Water Taxi link for transportation.

Museum of The Islands

Museum of The Islands is a wonderful way to see the history of the islands in and around Bokeelia. This collection of artifacts gives you a look at the early settlers, Calusa Indians, animal and plant life along with an outstanding collection of seashells.

Shopping on Matlacha

Shopping on Matlacha is a fun afternoon. There are numerous art studios along with island gift shops. Maybe it is that perfect souvenir to take back home or a gift for someone you love. Find time to visit the little island of Matlacha. It is only a 15-minute drive by car or boat.

The Winter Homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford

The Winter Homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford are an easy destination from Bokeelia. Plan on this excursion to take about an hour of drive time, as you will go into Ft. Myers, Florida. You can tour the homes and workshops as well as the grounds of these two brilliant men that actually happened to be neighbors.

The Shell Factory

The Shell Factory is the largest seller of seashells in south Florida. You will see seashells from all over Florida and the world. This giant warehouse of shells also has other Florida gifts from a huge selection of t-shirts and towels to candies, jewelry and books. They have an on site glass blower that is fascinating to watch. Children will also enjoy viewing the live alligators in their aquarium area and many other interesting items. This unique destination is located about a 45-minute drive away on Hwy 41, north of the intersection with Pine Island Road.

Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge

Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge is located on Sanibel Island, Florida and is a much longer day trip. Only 45 minutes by boat but about an hour and a half by car. The refuge is touted as one of the best winter birding spots. Visitors also commonly see alligators and turtles. The park has a visitor’s center, trails, and an autoroute that takes you through the park.

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is another 1.5 hour drive away day trip but well worth the time. Originally established to protect the largest remaining stand of bald cypress trees left in North America, it is home to many different species. The park has been operated by the National Audubon Society since 1955 and is a sanctuary to many birds, alligators, butterflies, insects and mammals. With a 2.5 mile elevated boardwalk, visitors are able to get close to wildlife in their natural habitat. Park also has a gift shop and restaurant.